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Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Potter's Cancer Returns, Rugby Community Rallying

Press Release

LAFAYETTE, Colo. – It is time for the USA Rugby community to rally behind one of Team USA's Olympians, a World Cup Eagle, a teammate, a partner, and a friend in Jillion Potter, who has been diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma.

Following her Women's Rugby World Cup 2014 campaign in France, Jillion took time away from rugby to receive care for the rare form of cancer. Over the course of six months, she underwent aggressive chemotherapy – all the while fitting in exercise and workouts – and eventually beat cancer to return to the Eagles. A year later, she was selected to Team USA's Rio 2016 Rugby Sevens squad.

"Jillion has been more than just an ambassador for USA Rugby and the global game," USA Rugby CEO Dan Payne said. "As we all know, she's brave; a courageous teammate in and out of rugby and an inspiration to all.

Take the jump to read more."This latest development, though heartbreaking, is an opportunity for the community to again stand behind one of our own as she fights cancer a second time. Like she plays on the field, Jillion will give her all, and we will be there with her every step of the way."

Jillion will be relocating to Houston, Texas, to seek treatment options for her latest bout with cancer. To support Jillion and partner Carol in this fight, please consider offering financial assistance via Jillion's YouCaring page. The USA Rugby community was instrumental the last time around, raising a surplus of donations that allowed Jillion to successfully get through treatments and donate to The Sarcoma Foundation of America.

"Jillion has an army of USA Rugby fans," Payne said. "Or, more appropriately, an army of Jillion Potter fans, of which I am one. I know I speak for the community when I say we're standing right behind her."Donations can be made here >>

About USA RugbyEstablished in 1975, USA Rugby is the governing body for the sport of rugby in America and a Full Sport Member of the United States Olympic Committee. Currently headquartered in Lafayette, Colorado, USA Rugby is charged with developing the game on all levels and has more than 120,000 active members, with more than 40,000 playing collegiate rugby and 35,000 playing senior club rugby. USA Rugby oversees four national teams, multiple collegiate and high school All-American sides, and an emerging Olympic development pathway for elite athletes. It also hosts more than 30 national playoff and championship events each year as a service to its members. In October 2009, the International Olympic Committee announced Rugby Sevens (the seven-a-side version of the game) would appear in the 2016 Olympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro, in which both the men and women qualified. Visit www.usarugby.orgfor more information.